Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes & Crematory

Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes & Crematory The Czaplewski family has served families in Hayfield, Dodge Center, and the surrounding areas for over 31 years.

Providing compassionate care to each family, as they honor
the ones they love. The compassionate funeral directors at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, provide individualized funeral services designed to meet the needs of each family. Our staff of dedicated professionals is available to assist you in making funeral service arrangements. From casket choices to funeral flowers, our funeral directors will guide you through every aspect of the service.

Donovan Russell KramerDonovan Kramer of Hayfield, MN passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026. A memorial service will be h...
03/30/2026

Donovan Russell Kramer

Donovan Kramer of Hayfield, MN passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church, 109 Main St in Hayfield, MN. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, April 3, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd St NW in Hayfield, MN and one hour prior to his service at the church.

Donovan’s family is composing his obituary and it will be available soon.

View Donovan Russell Kramer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Shirley Ann MoeShirley Ann Moe, 83, of Dodge Center, Minnesota passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at her home surrounde...
03/27/2026

Shirley Ann Moe

Shirley Ann Moe, 83, of Dodge Center, Minnesota passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family.

Shirley was born January 16, 1943, in Hayfield, MN to Archie and Ethel (Moreland) Robinson. She attended District 51 country school and graduated from West Concord High School in 1961. She married George Moe on December 6, 1961. Together they ran a dairy farm and raised a family. When they sold the dairy herd in 1986, Shirley went to work as a home health aide for Dodge County and later SEMCIL until her retirement.

Shirley is survived by her seven children, Martin (Belinda) Moe of Dodge Center, Peter (Pennie) Moe of Kenyon, Eric Moe of Dodge Center, Christine Martinelli of West Haven, Utah, Owen (Brenda) Moe of Dodge Center, Rebecca (Matt) Smith of Valley Center, Kansas, and Rachel (Nick) July of West Concord; 29 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George in 2005; son, Logan; brother, Lowell Robinson; and sister-in-law, Sherrie Robinson.

Church was an important part in Shirley's life. She was a lifelong member of Concord Church of Christ. She was a Bible school and Sunday school teacher for years. She also played piano for Sunday school and church services. She was a board member for many years and served as treasurer and secretary.

Although not traveling far from home the first half of her life, she made it up in the second half. George and her traveled to England and Hawaii and had road trips across the United States. After George's passing, she continued to travel, visiting her children, including 4 trips to Alaska. Shirley grew a big garden and made every jam and jelly known to man. She spent a lot of time building wood projects in her workshop. Her favorite project was her rocking horses, of which she made dozens. She was an avid quilter and embroiderer. In her later years, she loved when family would visit (she always had homemade cookies ready), and watching birds at her many birdfeeders.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2026, at Concord Church of Christ, 55080 200th Avenue, West Concord, MN with Reverend Peter Moen officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held at a later date at Concord Cemetery.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit http://www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com. Czaplewski Funeral Homes, 25 South Street SW, Dodge Center, MN 55927 (507)374-2155. Blessed be her memory.

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Wendy Ann StroeblWendy Ann (Osborn) Stroebl, 61, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Methodist...
03/17/2026

Wendy Ann Stroebl

Wendy Ann (Osborn) Stroebl, 61, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Methodist Campus with her beloved family at her side.

Wendy Ann Stroebl was born on September 13, 1964, in Rochester, Minnesota daughter to James and Carol (Hietala) Osborn. She grew up in Dodge Center, Minnesota, where she attended school and graduated from Dodge Center High School.

Following high school, Wendy continued her education at Rochester Vo-Tech, where she studied in the Accounting program. As she began her working years, she explored different paths, including rehabbing and painting houses. Her strong work ethic and willingness to work hard eventually led her to a position at Hardware Hank, where she found a career she enjoyed and where her life would change in a very special way.

While working at Hardware Hank, Wendy met her future husband, Don Stroebl. Their relationship grew, and on May 15, 1992, Wendy and Don were married. Through their marriage, Wendy became an instant mother to Dawn, Donnie, and Matt. Anyone who knew Wendy knew the deep love she had for the Stroebl clan, embracing them fully as her own family. She shared an especially close bond with Matt, who was her “AngelMan.”

Wendy will be remembered for her kind heart, her strong spirit, and the unwavering love she gave to her family and friends. She treasured the time spent with those she loved and took great pride in being part of a close and caring family. Wendy also had a deep love for her pets, who were an important part of her life. Punkin, Speckles, Jack, Cricket, and Cuddles helped round out the family and brought her great comfort and joy.

She will be deeply missed by her husband, Don Stroebl; her stepchildren, Dawn, Donnie, and Matt; grandchildren, Nate, Taylor, Tristin, Heather, Annie, Eddie, Rosie; great grandchildren, Sutton, Renley, Mateo, Samuel, Jordan, Aaron, Hunter, Maitreya; her sisters, Janna (Brian) Monosmith, Cindy (Norm) Hills; and nephews, Davis, Ike and Benett and the many family members and friends whose lives she touched.

Wendy was preceded in death by her parents, James and Carol Osborn.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the Dodge Center Public Library or Camp Companion.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE in Kasson, MN. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center, MN.

Wendy’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be her memory.

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Gary Martin LandersGary Martin Landers, 85, of Dodge Center, MN passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Mayo Clinic St...
03/16/2026

Gary Martin Landers

Gary Martin Landers, 85, of Dodge Center, MN passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Mayo Clinic St. Mary’s campus in Rochester, MN.

Gary was born on May 5, 1940, in Vermillion, South Dakota to Ira and Ann (Christiansen) Landers. In 1952, Gary and his family moved to Sherburn. He graduated from Sherburn High School in 1958. He was united in marriage to Peggy Ann Lyons on November 19, 1961, in Trimont, MN.

Gary farmed for his father-in-law for a few years until him and Peggy moved to Claremont, MN. He then worked for Vonruden Manufacturing for 10 years and also for Northern Natural Gas Company. He later worked for Owatonna Machine Company for 10 years. After the couple moved to Dodge Center, MN he began working as a custodian for McNeilus Steel for over 23 years.

Gary is survived by his children, children, Kimberly (Thomas) Fox of Kasson, MN, James (Mary Jo) Landers of Alva, FL, Gene (Barb) Landers of Grand Meadow, MN, and Lynn (Jeff) Landers of Claremont, MN; 17 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and brother, Douglas (Sandy) Landers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Peggy Landers; granddaughter, Tanya Fox; grandson, Danny Quinn; sister and brother-in-law, Diane (Duane) Faber.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 25 South Street SW in Dodge Center, MN with Pastor Roger Langworthy and Pastor Roy Andrews officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center, MN.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit http://www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com. Czaplewski Funeral Homes, 25 South Street SW, Dodge Center, MN 55927 (507)374-2155. Blessed be his memory.

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Leslie John RoseckeLeslie John Rosecke, age 74, passed away at his home in Richfield, Minnesota on Sunday, March 8, 2026...
03/10/2026

Leslie John Rosecke

Leslie John Rosecke, age 74, passed away at his home in Richfield, Minnesota on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

Leslie John Rosecke was born May 29, 1951 to Johnny and Katherine Rosecke. Les graduated from Kasson-Mantorville High School in 1969. During high school summer breaks he worked at Casey’s Drive-In in Kasson. He graduated from Waldorf College in 1971 then attended the University of Minnesota majoring in Mortuary Science. After graduating with a Mortuary Science Degree in 1975 he later earned his Masters in Business Administration from DeVry University.

Les interned and worked for Albin Chapel in Minneapolis for over 30 years. Then he worked for Thomson-Dougherty Funeral Home in Minneapolis and Johnson-Peterson Funeral Home in St. Paul until retirement in February, 2025. Les was proud of achieving and being recognized as a 50-year licensed funeral director serving others.

He was a long time active member of Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis serving on the Columbarium committee, the Church Board and many other committees. Les joined and participated in the Minnesota Men’s Compline Choir for over 20 years. The Choir traveled for performances nationwide plus one special performance in Paris, France. Attending the Augsburg Advent Vespers held at Central Lutheran Church was a highlight of his holidays.

There were many things over the years Les enjoyed. Many vacation getaways to Buena Vista Colorado, often taking friends and family in September to enjoy the Aspen fall colors and mountain scenery. Shopping estate and garage rummage sales looking for a good bargain. Trying new recipes, critiquing, reporting the results, reading and collecting cook books. Dining with family and friends was always special. Gardening in his hosta bed and peonies, playing organ in his home, hanging wall paper for friends, quilting and trying hardanger embroidery each took a special skill. Les loved his family and stayed in touch with neighbors and special friends regularly.

He was a man of great integrity.

Survivors include two sisters and their families: Joan Dotzenrod of Racine, Mn and Judy (Lonnie) Zelinske of Owatonna, Mn and many nieces and nephew.

Leslie was predeceased by his parents, Johnny and Katherine Rosecke, brother Jerald Rosecke, niece Jenny (Rosecke) Nguyen, nephew Ben Zelinske, brother-in-law Curtiss Dotzenrod.

Visitation will be one hour before the 1:00 pm service on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE, Kasson, Minnesota with Pastor Melissa Pohlman of Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date in South Zumbro Lutheran Cemetery in Kasson, MN.

Entrusted in care with Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes. Blessed be his memory.

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03/05/2026

Donald Buske - 03/05/2026

Virginia A. HylandVirginia “Ginny” Ann Hyland passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, March 3, 2026,...
03/05/2026

Virginia A. Hyland

Virginia “Ginny” Ann Hyland passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Cottagewood Senior Communities in Rochester, MN after a long, courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

Ginny was born in Austin, MN to Virgil and Dorothy (Nielsen) Haugen on May 11, 1947. She graduated from Hayfield High School in 1965, and continued her education at Mankato Commercial College. Upon graduation, she had a job with the Federal Aviation Agency of Minneapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center in Farmington, Minnesota. On June 18, 1967, she married her high school sweetheart, Gerald “Jerry” Hyland at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield, MN. They had two children, Kimberly (Jon) Jacobson of Hayfield, MN and Kelly (James) Pratt of Glen Ellyn, IL.

After working for the FAA, she spent time working at Vernon Creamery, Woodruff Company, Mayo Clinic and then in 1980, she accepted a position in the secretarial training program at IBM. She excelled throughout her career, culminating in her role as Executive Assistant to IBM’s top-level leadership in Rochester. Ginny retired shortly after Jerry and they spent many years at their cabin up north.

During her high school years, she enjoyed playing in the band, singing in the choir, being a wrestling cheerleader and singing in the local church choir group called the Sevenettes. She always found joy spending time with her family, scrapbooking, painting, gardening, singing, snacking in the boat, and playing with her dog, Max. Ginny was a member of West St. Olaf Lutheran Church and enjoyed singing in the church choir.

She is survived by her two daughters, Kim and Kelly; grandchildren, Morgan, Parker, Lauren, Ryan, Andrew and Michael; sisters, Judy (Allan) Wright of Dodge Center, MN, Sara (William) Clegg of Sonoma, CA, Diane (Stephen) Grier of Apple Valley, MN; and brothers, Michael (Delaine) Haugen of Minnetonka, MN, and Patrick (Barb) Haugen, Farmington, MN.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Hyland; and her parents, Virgil and Dorothy Haugen.

A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd Street NW in Hayfield, MN and one hour before the service at the church. The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at West St. Olaf Lutheran Church, 70640 260th Avenue in Hayfield, MN with Reverend Paul Thompson officiating. Inurnment will be in West St. Olaf Lutheran Cemetery.

To share a special memory or condolence please, visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd Street NW, Hayfield, Minnesota, 507-477-2259. Blessed be her memory.

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Eldora Louise BarberEldora “Ellie” Louise Barber, age 93, of Dodge Center, MN was peacefully called to her heavenly home...
03/04/2026

Eldora Louise Barber

Eldora “Ellie” Louise Barber, age 93, of Dodge Center, MN was peacefully called to her heavenly home on March 3, 2026.

Ellie was born on May 25, 1932, to Arthur and Martha (Flugum) Schneider. She grew up on the family farm outside of Waltham, MN alongside her siblings, Vernon, Melford, Marion, Arthur, and Maxine. Those early years on the farm shaped her lifelong love of family, faith, and hard work. She later graduated from Austin High School and went on to spend her professional career as a secretary and office manager for the Dodge Center School District, where she was known for her dedication and kindness.

On April 12, 1953, Ellie married the love of her life, Lloyd Barber. Together they built a home filled with love and laughter while raising their six children: Diane, Brad, Deb, Brian, Laurie, and Lonnie. They made their home in Dodge Center and were active members of Faith Lutheran church from 1961 to present. Ellie faithfully served the church in many ways, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday school, attending weekly Bible study, and always lending a hand wherever it was needed.

Ellie treasured time with her family. Music, vacations, and simple gatherings together created many cherished memories. After Lloyd’s passing on April 8, 2005, Ellie continued to carry forward the passions they shared—gardening, baking, and bird watching. Most of all, she remained the steady heart of her family, always present for celebrations, milestones, and quiet moments of encouragement and wisdom.

Ellie was also known for her remarkable talent in the art of crochet. With loving hands, she created countless gifts for others—afghans, prayer shawls, baby and baptismal blankets, doll clothes, Christmas ornaments, and delicate angels.

Ellie was an avid Twins fan and enjoyed watching high school football, but her greatest joy came from supporting her kids and grandkids in their own sports and endeavors.

Ellie had a gift for making people feel welcome and loved. Her family seemed to grow wherever she went. Friends, neighbors, friends of friends, and even strangers soon found themselves welcomed into her circle and affectionately calling her Mom, Grandma, or GG. During her time at Fieldcrest, she brightened the lives of many with her cheerful spirit and seasonal decorations, especially her beloved butterflies. Even in her final days, the hospital staff were touched by the warmth of her love, her devotion to family, and her unwavering faith in God.

Ellie is survived by her dear sisters, Marion Schneider and Maxine Bruemmer; her lifelong friend and sister, Diane Heitkamp; sisters-in-law, Tammy Schneider and Darlene Schneider; her children, Diane Barber, Deb Bucknell, Brad Barber, Laurie (Randy) Rahlf, Lonnie (Kyla) Barber, and Cheryl (Larry) Shoden; 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, and all who were blessed to know and love her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Lloyd Barber; her three brothers; son, Brian Barber; son-in-law, Craig Bucknell; daughter-in-law, Jean Barber; and grandson, Nathan.

A springtime celebration of Ellie's life will be held at 11:15 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church, 308 2nd St NW in Dodge Center, MN with Pastor Cheryl Indehar officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of her service at the church. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center, MN.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit http://www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com. Czaplewski Funeral Homes, 25 South Street SW, Dodge Center, MN 55927 (507)374-2155. Blessed be her memory.

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Charles TalcottCharles Allen Talcott, 77, of Byron, MN passed away on March 1, 2026.Charlie was born in Conneaut, Ohio a...
03/02/2026

Charles Talcott

Charles Allen Talcott, 77, of Byron, MN passed away on March 1, 2026.

Charlie was born in Conneaut, Ohio and adopted into his family at six months old. He grew up in Lakewood, Ohio, where he was active in High School activities and his church youth group. After 4 years in the Navy, he attended Cleveland State University and McCormick Theological Seminary. His first call was as a youth pastor at Worthington Presbyterian Church in suburban Columbus, OH. There he met his wife, Lisa. In 1987, he was called as a solo pastor to Hayfield Presbyterian, where he served until retirement in 2012. Charlie loved friends and family, learning all about small town life in Hayfield, and the youth of his church and the larger community. He also loved golf and traveling with Lisa.

A celebration of life gathering will be held from 1:00-4:00 PM on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Ranfranz and Vine Remembrance and Reception Centre, 5482 Royal Place NW, Rochester MN.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to First Tee of Rochester, Hayfield Presbyterian Church or Seasons Hospice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Talcott family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.

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Norman Robert ChicosNorman Robert Chicos, 85, of Claremont, MN passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Fairview Car...
02/24/2026

Norman Robert Chicos

Norman Robert Chicos, 85, of Claremont, MN passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Fairview Care Center in Dodge Center, MN.

Norman was born on March 3, 1940, in Owatonna, MN to Peter and Myrtle (Behne) Chicos. He graduated from Dodge Center High School. Following graduation he served in the U.S. Army. He also worked as a lifelong farmer in Claremont, MN.

Norman married Marcialou Ann (Petersohn) Twaddle on February 8, 1975. Norman and Marcia enjoyed wintering in Lake Havasu for many years and they also enjoyed spending time at their Lake Home on Cedar Lake in Faribault, MN.

Norman enjoying attending card parties, cheering on the MN Vikings and the MN Twins. He was a longtime member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Claremont, MN. He was also a member of the Dodge Center American Legion Post 384.

Norman is survived by his children, Chad Chicos of Waseca, MN, James Twaddle of Byron, MN, Thomas (Shelly) Twaddle of Owatonna, MN, Ronald (Judy) Twaddle of Kasson, MN, Jon Twaddle of Udon Thani, Thailand, Susan (Steven) Hondl of Owatonna, MN; 15 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild, siblings, Kathleen Christie, Roger Chicos, Eleanor Engesser, and Lois Hancock.

He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse, Marcia Chicos; and daughter-in-law, Gwen Chicos.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St. John Baptiste de la Salle Parish, 20 2nd St NE in Dodge Center, MN with Father John Lasuba officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his mass at the church. Interment will be in St. Francis De Sales Catholic Cemetery in Claremont, MN.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit http://www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com. Czaplewski Funeral Homes, 25 South Street SW, Dodge Center, MN 55927 (507)374-2155. Blessed be his memory.

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Vickie Lynn KauffmanVickie Lynn Kauffman was united with her Lord and Savior into eternal life on Thursday, February 19,...
02/20/2026

Vickie Lynn Kauffman

Vickie Lynn Kauffman was united with her Lord and Savior into eternal life on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Mayo Clinic St. Mary's Campus, Rochester, MN.

Vickie was born on April 2, 1950, to Elmer and Lorraine (Boelter) Fossum in Austin, MN, where she grew up and attended school. After graduating from high school, she worked at the old Austin Drug Store and attended Austin JC with the intent to study nursing. She eventually moved to the Twin cities for a short time where she worked at a hospital pharmacy before returning to Austin. She also worked at Johnson's Greenhouse and Floral in Austin as well as caring for the disabled and handicapped at a facility in Adams, MN.

On February 16, 2002, Vickie married James “Jim” Kauffman and they were blessed with 24 years together. They made their home in Brownsdale.

Vickie was a faithful member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Austin. She was given grace to be a faithful Christian. Baptized into the family of God as an infant, there the Lord placed His name upon her and joined her to Christ’s death and resurrection and continued to preserve her in the faith of Jesus Christ by Word and Sacrament. She was certain of gaining heaven, as she was sure that the blood of Jesus Christ covered her sins.

Vickie is survived by her beloved husband, Jim Kauffman, Brownsdale, MN; stepchildren, Richard Borcherding, Brownsdale, MN, Jenn (John) Huebsch, Mitchell, IA, Rachel (Drew) Hartson, Hayfield, MN, Travis (Ashlen) Kauffman, Hayfield, MN; brothers ,Vance Fossum of Columbia, SC, Randy Fossum of Albert Lea, MN; brother-in-law’s, Gary (Karen) Kauffman, Emmetsburg, IA, Rodney Watson, West Branch, IA, Kevin (Christie) Kauffman, The Villages, FL, Dan (Bev) Kauffman, Franktown, CO; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Lorraine Fossum; a brother, Roger; sisters-in-law, Christine Fossum, Diana Fossum and Deb Watson; father and mother-in-law, Don and Pat Kauffman; and brother-in-law, Bob Kauffman.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St Peters Evangelical Lutheran, 56937 220th St in Austin, MN with Rev. Edward Starkey officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 501 2nd St NW in Hayfield, MN. Interment will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery in Hayfield, MN.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Austin, MN or to the donor's choice.

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord” Revelation 14:13”

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be her memory.

View Vickie Lynn Kauffman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Mary Catherine ApfelMary Catherine (Mulligan) Apfel, 79, of Mantorville, MN passed away at home in the early morning of ...
02/16/2026

Mary Catherine Apfel

Mary Catherine (Mulligan) Apfel, 79, of Mantorville, MN passed away at home in the early morning of Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Mary was born on August 11, 1946, to James and Mary Agnes (Keough) Mulligan. She graduated from Plainview High School in 1964, and attended Mankato State University where she majored in elementary education, graduating in 1968. At Mankato State she met James “Jim” Apfel and they were married on August 9, 1969.

Mary's passion for education and love of young children would be a guiding force in her life for nearly 50 years. She taught Kindergarten and First Grade for three years in the Rochester area before becoming a stay-at-home mom. In the mid 1980's, she returned to the workforce and found her true home at Aldrich Memorial Nursery School where she worked as an aide for nearly 10 years. She next ventured to Green Bay, WI where she worked primarily with early childhood special needs children for many years before returning (in her retirement years) to her beloved Aldrich in 2012, in a substitute role. Her patience and kindness with the children made her a mentor and role model to others.

In her spare time, Mary was an avid baker and seamstress, taking a special interest in quilting. She also volunteered with various organizations in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. She loved collecting apples (and sharing her vast collection with others) and walking in the woods to search for wildflowers.

Mary is survived by her husband of 56 years, Jim; her children, Laurie (John) Mullin and Jay Apfel; granddaughter, Kaitlyn Mullin; brothers, John (Ann) Mulligan and Jim (Carol) Mulligan. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Tom Mulligan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 11 4th Ave SW in Rochester, MN with Reverend Bob Horihan officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to her mass at the church. Inurnment will be in Maple Grove Cemetery in Kasson, MN.

You are invited to view of livestream of Mary's funeral service on https://www.facebook.com/cocathedralofstjohn or https://youtube.com/.

The family wishes to express their deepest thanks and gratitude to Mayo Hospice and Visiting Angels of Rochester. Their care and compassion allowed Mary to remain in her home during her final months and provided invaluable support to the family. Donations in Mary's name can be made to Aldrich School in Rochester.

To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.czaplewskifuneralhomes.com, Czaplewski Family Funeral Homes, 801 7th St SE Kasson, MN 55940 (507) 634-6510. Blessed be her memory.

View Mary Catherine Apfel's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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801 7th Street SE
Kasson, MN
55944

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